Greece to Buy Israeli Air Defense System in Record $3.6 Billion Deal

Greece is set to sign a historic $3.6 billion defense agreement with Israel's Ministry of Defense on Monday in Tel Aviv. The deal, codenamed "Achilles' Shield," involves the acquisition of a multi-layered air defense system designed to counter potential threats from Turkey and Iran. This agreement surpasses the 2023 Arrow 3 deal with Germany, valued at $3.5 billion, making it the largest defense export deal in Israel's history.

The majority of the funds will go to Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, which will supply its David's Sling system for intercepting ballistic missiles and heavy rockets, as well as its portable SPYDER systems for countering drones. Israel Aerospace Industries will provide the Barak system for defense against aircraft and missiles. The project also includes the establishment of a national command and control center integrating artificial intelligence and the deployment of batteries on popular Greek islands.

Greek companies will participate as subcontractors, contributing approximately 700 million euros to the project. Greece has become a significant customer for Israel's defense industry, having previously purchased various systems including SPICE bombs, Rampage missiles, and Heron 2 drones.